The Tampa Bay Lightning took another major step in their ongoing quest to transform the identity of the franchise
with the unveiling of a new logo and new home and road uniforms today at the St. Pete Times Forum. Owner Jeff Vinik, Chief Executive Officer Tod Leiweke and General Manager Steve Yzerman were on hand along with players Vincent Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis and Steven Stamkos to introduce the new uniforms that will be worn beginning next season.
The words “bold”, “classic” and “iconic” were used to describe the new look, which is radically different than what has been associated with the team in the past.
The most striking and obvious difference in the uniforms is the absence of black and silver. The home uniform is blue (“Tampa Bay Blue”) with wide, white stripes and features a redesigned white Lightning crest, which is still basically a lightning bolt within a circle (although more of an oval shape) and no lettering while the road uniform is white with the words “Tampa Bay” in blue above a blue crest. Both uniforms have round shoulder patches that feature the crest with the words “Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey Club”.
Gone are the lightning bolts on the pants as well as the “victory stripes” under the arms, both elements that have been part of the Lightning uniform since the original design by team founder Phil Esposito. “I think it’s good. It’s certainly a more classic look. Things change over time and this is part of the direction that ownership wants to take the club. I support it 100%”, said Esposito.
“This is a great day for the Lightning, our fans and the Tampa Bay community”, said Vinik. “Nearly a year ago when I purchased the franchise, I envisioned a world-class organization being run by the best people in the industry. Tod (Leiweke) and his staff have created an exciting long-term vision, built around the core values we all believe in. while Steve (Yzerman) has done a great job transforming the hockey team. The logo change is very emblamatic of our new direction.”
It was announced that all full season ticket holders for the upcoming season will receive the new home jersey with their respective ticket commitments. A microchip will be inserted in the sleeve which will identify season ticket holders at concession and merchandise stands where they will receive a 25% discount on concessions and 35% on merchandise.
